Davis names 32-year department veteran to police chief’s post

Darren Pytel, a 32-year-veteran of the Davis Police Department, will assume the chief’s post Jan. 1, following the retirement of Landy Black.

City Manager Dirk Brazil announced Pytel’s appointment Friday.

Pytel joined the Davis department as a police cadet in 1983, according to a city news release. He was subsequently promoted to bike enforcement officer, police officer, sergeant/watch commander, lieutenant and captain. He has served as assistant chief since 2013.

Pytel has a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from California State University, Sacramento, and a law degree from Lincoln Law School.

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“Darren Pytel, with his knowledge of Davis and his experience in the field, rose to the top of the applicant pool,” Brazil said in a written statement. “He understands the challenges of police work in Davis and has a strong operational and management background.”

Brazil said Pytel’s appointment would provide the department with continuity and a smooth transition.

Black is retiring Dec. 31 after nearly nine years as chief.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to serve the community in this new capacity,” Pytel said in a written statement. “This is an exciting time to work collaboratively with the City Council, our highly skilled public safety staff and an engaged community on a broad range of initiatives that will further improve public safety in Davis.”

Mayor Dan Wolk noted that he and Pytel are Davis High School graduates.

“Darren’s long history with the city and his deep understanding of the community will serve Davis residents well,” Wolk said in a written statement.